The Dangers of Bioperine

By Sarah McLeod

Bioperine is available as an over-the-counter nutritional supplement. Fitness experts and Ayurvedic medicine healers recommend bioperine supplements to improve digestion and facilitate the absorption of minerals, protein and vitamins from food sources. It is also believed to increase a user’s metabolic rate. As an extract of black peppercorn, bioperine may appear benign as a dietary supplement. Marketed under the prescription name, Cardiotek, however, many unpleasant side effects are ascribed to bioperine consumption.

Gastrointestinal

Bioperine is taken to strengthen the digestive system. Unaware consumers may be surprised to know that even over-the-counter supplement packages recommend taking bioperine with food. Vimo.com lists possible gastrointestinal discomforts as nausea, diarrhea, black stools and constipation. Persons with a history of these symptoms should speak with a physician before taking bioperine. It is also helpful to consult with a physician to find out what to do in the event that any of these occur while taking the supplement.

Dermatological

Some consumers may develop an allergic response after taking bioperine. WebMD warns that it may express topically as a skin rash with itching and/or inflammation and redness. Vimo.com adds that dermatological symptoms may also exhibit as hives and extend to the face in the form of swelling, including the lips and tongue. A physician can prescribe treatment for the allergic reaction, recommend bioperine discontinuation, change your dosing and monitor your condition for worsening.

Respiratory

More serious allergic reactions to bioperine supplementation occur in the respiratory tract. Much like tongue swelling, these reactions are equally frightening in that they negatively affect the ability to breathe. While a family doctor can treat an allergic reaction, breathing difficulty should be considered a medical emergency. WebMD alerts consumers to the possibility of developing bronchospasms. Bronchospasms occur during asthmatic episodes in which a patient’s bronchioles contract and obstruct the airway passage. Vimo.com includes throat closing as a respiratory side effect of bioperine, as well.

Drug Interactions

Drugs.com recognizes several prescribed drugs and dietary supplements that are known to interact with bioperine when prescribed as Cardiotek. Bioperine’s folic acid content increases the effect and toxicity of cancer treatment drugs, fluorouracil, capecitabine and tegafur. Bioperine is chemically structured like calcitriol, paricalcitol and doxercalciferol. It dangerously increases blood calcium and phosphorus levels when taken with these supplements. In conjunction with orlistat, bioperine reduces the absorption of beta carotene and vitamin E. Finally, colesevelam minimizes the positive gastrointestinal effects of bioperine by decreasing the body’s ability to absorb vitamins E, A, K and D.